We have received an avalanche of H1N1 questions from CTV viewers. We asked Dr. Paul Saba, a physician at Lachine hospital and a member of the group Physicians for Social Justice, to answer a few of the latest questions.
CTV viewer: What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1?
Saba: Here's a list of H1N1 signs and symptoms to watch for.
Children:
. Trouble breathing
. Bluish lips
. Persistent vomiting
. Persistent fever
. Very sleepy
. Signs of dehydration
. Not urinating
. Fever in any child under 3 months of age
Adults
. Persistent fever
. Trouble breathing
. Signs of dehydration
. Not urinating
High Risk
Anyone who is considered high risk and who demonstrates any flu-like symptoms must visit a doctor or CSSS clinic immediately so they can be provided with anti-viral medication
CTV viewer: It seems people over the age of 65 are not a priority; some have heard they're the least likely to contract H1N1. Is this true?
Saba: There is some evidence that there may be some immunity in this group, so they weren't put on the priority list, but we as a coalition feel that those over 65 with chronic illness could be included in the priority list.
CTV viewer: People have heard the vaccine contains toxic ingredients, pointing out emails and websites saying the same thing. Is it true?
Saba: There are a number of ingredients which imply (they're toxic), for example, there's emulsifin, and polysorbate - which you find in ice cream - there is a very small amount of mercury - which you can get in a can of tuna - and there's vitamin E. All of these products, we don't inject them into ourselves everyday, but all vaccines have ingredients that are used as preservatives, used as adjuvant, used to stimulate, and they are extremely, extremely safe. The reports that they are dangerous are exaggerated and probably the major side effect is a sore arm, which I felt for a few days.
CTV viewer: What should someone do when they are hit with this flu? Any tips if you're home?
Saba: Drink lots of fluids, make sure to use hand washing soap, try to isolate - if you've got other family members, try to isolate from them and try to go out from your room as little as possible. It doesn't mean you have to stay in bed all day, but don't contaminate the house when you can easily spread it through your hands if you sneeze. If you have several bathrooms, try to dedicate one to yourself and if you have two tables, use one. Wash utensils, keep everything separate. As soon as you have symptoms, stay home, don't go to work. If your children are sick, don't send them to school; you just risk spreading it. For about four days after your symptoms are gone, you should also isolate yourself.
